Maine, in the northeastern U.S., is known as the “Pine Tree State,” reflecting its vast forests. Maine has a population of 1.3 million, with Augusta as the capital and Portland, a city known for its coastal scenery and seafood, as the largest city.
10 Largest Cities in Maine
1. Portland (Maine)
City Facts
- County: Cumberland County
- Area: 69.44 square miles
- Population: 68,408 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 207
- ZIP Codes: 04101-04124
- Latitude/Longitude: 43.6591° N, 70.2568° W
Location and History
Portland is located along the southern coast of Maine, on a peninsula extending into Casco Bay. Founded in 1632 as a fishing and trading settlement, it was originally called “Machigonne” by the native peoples. The city developed as an important colonial trading post, and its deep harbor made it a center for shipping and fishing. Portland has rebuilt itself multiple times, most notably after British attacks during the Revolutionary War and the Great Fire of 1866, which destroyed much of the city. Today, Portland is Maine’s largest city and its economic, cultural, and transportation hub. Its economy is based on a mix of fishing, shipping, retail, and tourism, with a growing food and craft beer scene.
Major Landmarks
- Old Port District: A historic waterfront area featuring cobblestone streets, boutiques, galleries, and restaurants.
- Portland Head Light: Maine’s oldest lighthouse, built in 1791, located in Fort Williams Park and offering stunning ocean views.
- Victoria Mansion: A 19th-century Italianate mansion, now a museum showcasing period furnishings and architecture.
- Eastern Promenade: A scenic park along the waterfront with walking trails, picnic areas, and views of Casco Bay and the surrounding islands.
- Portland Museum of Art: The largest and oldest public art institution in Maine, featuring collections of American and European art.
Major Highways
Portland is well-connected by major highways. Interstate 295 runs through the city, providing access to nearby Freeport and Brunswick to the north, and connects to Interstate 95 (Maine Turnpike), which runs north-south and links Portland to cities like Augusta and Boston. U.S. Route 1 passes through Portland, running along the coast and serving as a key local route. The city is also served by U.S. Route 302, which runs northwest toward New Hampshire and Vermont. Portland’s highways make it easily accessible for both residents and tourists.
2. Lewiston (Maine)
City Facts
- County: Androscoggin County
- Area: 35.3 square miles
- Population: 36,617 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 207
- ZIP Codes: 04240-04243
- Latitude/Longitude: 44.1004° N, 70.2148° W
Location and History
Lewiston, located in south-central Maine along the Androscoggin River, was settled in the 1770s and grew as a manufacturing hub during the 19th century, thanks to its location near water power sources. In the late 1800s, French-Canadian immigrants flocked to the city to work in its textile mills, giving Lewiston a strong Franco-American cultural influence that remains today. The city’s economy historically revolved around the textile industry, but with the decline of manufacturing, Lewiston has shifted toward healthcare, education, and services. It is home to Bates College, one of the oldest liberal arts colleges in the United States.
Major Landmarks
- Bates College: A prestigious liberal arts college known for its beautiful campus, historic buildings, and cultural contributions to the city.
- Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul: One of the largest churches in New England, showcasing stunning Gothic architecture and serving as a center for the local Catholic community.
- Museum L-A: A museum dedicated to preserving the industrial and labor history of Lewiston and Auburn, particularly in textiles and shoemaking.
- Thorncrag Nature Sanctuary: A 450-acre wildlife preserve offering hiking trails, birdwatching, and nature programs.
- Androscoggin Riverwalk: A scenic walking path along the river that connects Lewiston and its twin city, Auburn, offering views of the Great Falls.
Major Highways
Lewiston is easily accessible by major highways. Interstate 95 (Maine Turnpike) runs through the western edge of the city, providing connections to Portland and Augusta. U.S. Route 202 serves as a key route to nearby Augusta and Auburn, while State Route 196 connects Lewiston to Brunswick and the coast. These highways make Lewiston a key transportation hub in central Maine, facilitating trade and commuting.
3. Bangor (Maine)
City Facts
- County: Penobscot County
- Area: 34.7 square miles
- Population: 31,880 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 207
- ZIP Codes: 04401-04402
- Latitude/Longitude: 44.8012° N, 68.7778° W
Location and History
Bangor is located along the Penobscot River in central Maine and serves as a major commercial and cultural hub for the region. Founded in the late 1700s, the city grew rapidly in the 19th century as a center for the lumber industry, with its proximity to vast forests and the river enabling it to become one of the world’s leading lumber ports. Bangor’s economy has since diversified into healthcare, education, and retail. The city is also closely associated with famed author Stephen King, who resides in Bangor and often uses the city as a setting in his novels.
Major Landmarks
- Stephen King’s House: The famous author’s Victorian mansion, located in a quiet Bangor neighborhood, attracts fans from around the world.
- Bangor Waterfront: A revitalized area along the Penobscot River offering a park, concert venues, and walking paths with views of the river.
- Paul Bunyan Statue: A 31-foot-tall statue of the mythical lumberjack, celebrating Bangor’s history as a lumbering center.
- Cole Land Transportation Museum: A museum showcasing Maine’s transportation history, featuring vintage cars, trucks, trains, and military vehicles.
- Mount Hope Cemetery: The second oldest garden cemetery in the U.S., known for its beautiful landscaping and historic gravesites, including those used in Stephen King’s Pet Sematary.
Major Highways
Bangor is a key transportation hub in central Maine, connected by several major highways. Interstate 95 runs through the city, providing access to Portland and the Canadian border. U.S. Route 1A serves as a scenic route to coastal towns like Bar Harbor. U.S. Route 2 runs through Bangor, linking it to rural areas to the west and east. These highways make Bangor easily accessible for travelers and serve as vital connections to the rest of Maine.
4. South Portland (Maine)
City Facts
- County: Cumberland County
- Area: 14.0 square miles
- Population: 26,974 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 207
- ZIP Codes: 04106
- Latitude/Longitude: 43.6390° N, 70.2409° W
Location and History
South Portland is situated just across the Fore River from Portland and serves as an important industrial and commercial area in southern Maine. Originally part of Cape Elizabeth, South Portland separated and became its own city in 1898. The city played a vital role during World War II as a shipbuilding center, with its shipyards producing Liberty ships. Today, South Portland is known for its retail centers, including the Maine Mall, the largest shopping mall in the state, and its strong maritime presence with busy oil terminals. The city’s economy is supported by retail, shipping, and light industry.
Major Landmarks
- Bug Light Park: Home to the historic Portland Breakwater Lighthouse (Bug Light), this park offers panoramic views of Portland Harbor and the Casco Bay Islands.
- Maine Mall: The state’s largest shopping mall, featuring a variety of retail stores, restaurants, and entertainment options.
- Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse: A historic lighthouse accessible by a granite breakwater, offering tours and scenic views of the bay.
- Fort Preble: A former military fort located near Southern Maine Community College, offering historical sites and oceanfront views.
- Greenbelt Walkway: A popular recreational trail that runs through South Portland, connecting neighborhoods, parks, and waterfront areas.
Major Highways
South Portland is well-served by major highways. Interstate 295 runs through the city, providing quick access to Portland and connecting to Interstate 95 (Maine Turnpike), which runs north-south through the state. U.S. Route 1 serves as a key local route, running parallel to the coast and providing access to nearby Scarborough and Cape Elizabeth. These highways make South Portland a convenient residential and commercial hub within the Portland metropolitan area.
5. Auburn (Maine)
City Facts
- County: Androscoggin County
- Area: 65.7 square miles
- Population: 23,414 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 207
- ZIP Codes: 04210-04212
- Latitude/Longitude: 44.0979° N, 70.2312° W
Location and History
Auburn is located on the western bank of the Androscoggin River, opposite its twin city, Lewiston. Settled in the late 1700s, Auburn became a city in 1869. The city developed as an industrial hub in the 19th century, known for its shoe manufacturing and textile mills. Auburn’s downtown area features historic buildings, reflecting its industrial past. Today, Auburn’s economy is more diversified, with a mix of manufacturing, retail, and healthcare services. Its close relationship with Lewiston makes the two cities an important regional center in central Maine.
Major Landmarks
- Auburn Riverwalk: A scenic walking path along the Androscoggin River, offering views of the river and access to parks and historic sites.
- Festival Plaza: A public space in downtown Auburn, hosting concerts, festivals, and community events.
- Mount Apatite Park: A popular destination for outdoor recreation, offering hiking, mountain biking, and rock hounding for gemstones.
- Central Maine Community College: A local college offering a wide range of academic programs and serving as a hub for education in the region.
- Museum L-A: Located across the river in Lewiston, this museum explores the shared industrial heritage of the Lewiston-Auburn area.
Major Highways
Auburn is well-connected by several major highways. Interstate 95 (Maine Turnpike) runs just east of the city, providing easy access to Portland and Augusta. U.S. Route 202 and Maine Route 4 serve as key north-south routes, while Maine Route 11 connects Auburn to nearby communities. These highways make Auburn an important part of the central Maine transportation network.
6. Biddeford (Maine)
City Facts
- County: York County
- Area: 59.08 square miles
- Population: 22,696 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 207
- ZIP Codes: 04005-04007
- Latitude/Longitude: 43.4926° N, 70.4530° W
Location and History
Biddeford is located along the southern coast of Maine, on the banks of the Saco River, just across from the city of Saco. Founded in the early 1600s, it is one of the oldest European settlements in the United States. Biddeford became an important industrial center in the 19th century, with the development of textile mills powered by the river. The city’s historic mills are now being revitalized into residential and commercial spaces, attracting new residents and businesses. Biddeford has a growing arts scene and is also home to the University of New England’s Biddeford campus, contributing to its vibrant community.
Major Landmarks
- Pepperell Mill Campus: A historic mill complex now redeveloped into apartments, businesses, and artist studios, symbolizing Biddeford’s industrial past and modern revival.
- University of New England: A private university with a scenic campus along the coast, known for its health sciences programs and marine research.
- Biddeford City Theater: A historic theater that hosts live performances, concerts, and community events, located in the heart of downtown.
- Fortunes Rocks Beach: A picturesque coastal area offering sandy beaches, stunning ocean views, and a popular spot for surfing.
- Saco Riverwalk: A scenic walking path along the Saco River, providing access to parks, downtown Biddeford, and neighboring Saco.
Major Highways
Biddeford is easily accessible via several major highways. Interstate 95 (Maine Turnpike) runs just west of the city, providing a direct route to Portland, Boston, and other major destinations. U.S. Route 1 runs through Biddeford, connecting it to coastal towns and cities. Maine Route 111 serves as a key east-west route, linking Biddeford to nearby Sanford and the inland areas. These highways make Biddeford a key coastal transportation hub.
7. Sanford (Maine)
City Facts
- County: York County
- Area: 48.75 square miles
- Population: 22,100 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 207
- ZIP Codes: 04073
- Latitude/Longitude: 43.4374° N, 70.7748° W
Location and History
Sanford is located in southern Maine, near the border with New Hampshire. Founded in the late 1600s, the town grew as a center for textile manufacturing during the 19th century. At its height, Sanford was home to several large mills that produced woolen goods and textiles. However, the industry declined in the 20th century, and the city has since focused on diversifying its economy. Today, Sanford is known for its suburban lifestyle, historic downtown, and access to outdoor recreation. The city is also a gateway to the nearby Lakes Region, making it a popular spot for visitors.
Major Landmarks
- Sanford Mainers: A collegiate baseball team that plays at Goodall Park, providing family-friendly entertainment and a connection to Maine’s baseball history.
- Sanford-Springvale Historical Museum: A museum dedicated to preserving the history of Sanford and the surrounding area, with exhibits on the local textile industry.
- Number One Pond: A large pond in the heart of Sanford, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and ice skating in the winter.
- Sanford Performing Arts Center: A state-of-the-art theater that hosts concerts, plays, and community events.
- McDougal Orchards: A local family-owned farm offering apple picking, hayrides, and other seasonal activities.
Major Highways
Sanford is served by several key highways. U.S. Route 202 runs through the city, providing access to nearby towns like Alfred and Lebanon. Maine Route 4 runs north-south, connecting Sanford to Biddeford and the coast. Maine Route 109 provides a direct route to the southern coastal areas, including Wells and Kennebunk. These highways make Sanford a key transportation hub for southern Maine.
8. Saco (Maine)
City Facts
- County: York County
- Area: 39.35 square miles
- Population: 21,824 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 207
- ZIP Codes: 04072
- Latitude/Longitude: 43.5009° N, 70.4420° W
Location and History
Saco is located along the southern coast of Maine, directly across the Saco River from Biddeford. Settled in the early 1600s, Saco developed alongside its sister city, Biddeford, as a major textile manufacturing center during the 19th century. The city’s mills were powered by the river, and Saco became a prosperous industrial town. While the mills have since closed, Saco has transitioned into a residential and commercial hub, with a growing tourism sector thanks to its beaches and proximity to Portland. The city’s downtown area retains much of its historic charm.
Major Landmarks
- Ferry Beach State Park: A popular coastal park offering sandy beaches, picnic areas, and walking trails through coastal habitats.
- Thornton Academy: A historic private school founded in 1811, with a beautiful campus and a long history of academic excellence.
- Saco Museum: A museum showcasing the history of Saco and the surrounding area, with exhibits on local industries, art, and culture.
- Biddeford-Saco Riverwalk: A scenic walking trail that connects the two cities, offering views of the Saco River and historic mill buildings.
- Funtown Splashtown USA: A large amusement and water park, providing family-friendly entertainment with rides, waterslides, and games.
Major Highways
Saco is well-connected by major highways. Interstate 95 (Maine Turnpike) runs just west of the city, offering a direct route to Portland, Boston, and beyond. U.S. Route 1 passes through Saco, connecting it to nearby coastal communities and serving as a local thoroughfare. Maine Route 112 provides access to inland areas and connects Saco to nearby towns. These highways make Saco an important transportation hub for southern Maine.
9. Westbrook (Maine)
City Facts
- County: Cumberland County
- Area: 17.33 square miles
- Population: 20,702 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 207
- ZIP Codes: 04092-04098
- Latitude/Longitude: 43.6777° N, 70.3550° W
Location and History
Westbrook is located just west of Portland along the Presumpscot River. Originally part of the town of Falmouth, Westbrook was incorporated as a separate town in 1814. The city developed as a center for paper and textile manufacturing, with its mills powered by the river. While manufacturing has declined, Westbrook has grown as a residential suburb of Portland, attracting families and businesses due to its proximity to the city and its own vibrant downtown. Westbrook is also home to several parks and recreational areas, making it a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
Major Landmarks
- Westbrook Riverwalk: A scenic walking path along the Presumpscot River, offering views of historic mill buildings and access to downtown Westbrook.
- Saccarappa Falls: A small waterfall on the Presumpscot River that once powered the city’s mills, now a scenic attraction and a popular spot for fishing.
- Westbrook Performing Arts Center: A modern theater that hosts concerts, plays, and community events.
- Riverbank Park: A large park in the heart of Westbrook, featuring sports fields, a playground, and a gazebo for community events.
- Bicentennial Park: A popular outdoor area with walking paths, picnic areas, and views of the river.
Major Highways
Westbrook is easily accessible via several major highways. Interstate 95 (Maine Turnpike) runs just west of the city, providing a direct route to Portland, Augusta, and Boston. U.S. Route 302 passes through Westbrook, serving as a key local route and connecting the city to nearby towns. These highways make Westbrook a convenient residential area with easy access to Portland and other parts of southern Maine.
10. Augusta (Maine)
City Facts
- County: Kennebec County
- Area: 58.13 square miles
- Population: 18,732 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 207
- ZIP Codes: 04330-04338
- Latitude/Longitude: 44.3106° N, 69.7795° W
Location and History
Augusta, the capital of Maine, is located on the Kennebec River in the southern part of the state. Settled in 1754 as a trading post, Augusta became the state capital in 1827 due to its central location. The city grew as a center for government, education, and industry, with mills along the Kennebec River driving its economy. Today, Augusta is a small but vibrant city, with government services, healthcare, and education playing key roles in its economy. Its historic downtown area and beautiful riverfront make it an attractive destination for visitors.
Major Landmarks
- Maine State House: The state capitol building, with its iconic copper dome, offering tours and insight into Maine’s government.
- Old Fort Western: A historic fort and trading post dating back to 1754, now a museum offering tours and educational programs.
- Kennebec River Rail Trail: A scenic walking and biking trail that runs along the river, connecting Augusta to nearby communities.
- Blaine House: The official residence of the Governor of Maine, located near the State House, offering tours of the historic mansion.
- Viles Arboretum: A 224-acre botanical garden and arboretum offering walking trails, art installations, and a wide variety of plant species.
Major Highways
Augusta is well-connected by several major highways. Interstate 95 (Maine Turnpike) runs through the city, providing access to Portland and Bangor. U.S. Route 202 serves as a key route to nearby towns and cities, while Maine Route 3 connects Augusta to the coastal areas. These highways make Augusta an important transportation hub for central Maine, facilitating travel and trade throughout the state.